The rising cost of factory-loaded shotshells has many hunters and shooters looking for ways to save money. Reloading your own shotshells is a viable option that can significantly reduce your expenses, but it's crucial to understand the upfront investment and ongoing costs before you dive in. This guide will break down the total cost of reloading shotshells, covering everything from initial setup to ongoing expenses. Understanding the cost to reload shotshells allows you to make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for you.
Initial Investment: Getting Started with Shotshell Reloading
The initial investment for reloading shotshells can seem daunting, but it's a one-time cost that pays off over time, especially if you're a frequent shooter. The primary equipment you'll need includes:
- Reloading Press: This is the heart of your reloading operation. There are various types available, ranging from simple single-stage presses suitable for beginners to more complex progressive presses for high-volume reloaders. Prices range from around $100 for a basic single-stage press to upwards of $500 for a progressive press.
- Dies: These are used to resize, prime, and crimp your shotshells. You'll need a set of dies specific to the shotshell gauge you plan to reload (e.g., 12 gauge, 20 gauge). Expect to spend between $50 and $100 per gauge.
- Powder Measure: Accurate powder measurement is crucial for safe and consistent reloading. A good powder measure will cost between $50 and $150.
- Primer Seating Tool: This tool seats the primers into the shotshell hulls. These can range from simple hand tools to more sophisticated attachments for your press. Prices generally range from $20 to $50.
- Shot Dispenser: This tool helps you quickly and accurately measure the correct amount of shot for each shell. You can find dispensers ranging from $30 to $100.
- Other Necessary Tools: This category includes items such as a shell holder, crimp starter, powder funnel, case lube, and cleaning supplies. Budget around $50-$100 for these additional tools.
Total Estimated Initial Investment: $300 - $800 (depending on the press and chosen components)
Ongoing Costs: The Per-Shell Expenses
Once you have the equipment, you'll need to factor in the ongoing costs of reloading supplies. These include:
- Shotshell Hulls: Hulls can be purchased new or collected from spent shells (if you're careful and clean them thoroughly). New hulls cost between $0.10 and $0.30 per hull, depending on gauge and brand. The more you reuse, the cheaper it is.
- Gunpowder: Shotshell powder is sold by weight, typically in one-pound containers. The cost per pound varies depending on powder type and brand, typically ranging from $20 to $40 per pound. The amount of powder used per shell influences cost significantly.
- Shot: This is usually sold in 25-pound bags. The cost per pound varies widely depending on shot size and type (lead, steel, etc.). Expect to pay between $15 and $35 per 25-pound bag.
- Primers: Primers are sold in boxes of 100. The cost per box ranges from $15 to $30, depending on the brand and type.
- Wads: Wads separate the shot from the powder and provide a seal. These are sold in bulk and cost roughly $0.05 to $0.15 per wad.
Example Cost Breakdown (Per 100 Shells - 12 Gauge):
| Item | Quantity | Cost per Unit | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hulls | 100 | $0.20 | $20 |
| Powder | 1 lb (approx.) | $30/lb | $30 |
| Shot | 1 lb (approx.) | $25/lb | $25 |
| Primers | 100 | $0.25 | $25 |
| Wads | 100 | $0.10 | $10 |
| Total Cost | $110 |
Note: This cost breakdown is an estimate, and the actual cost may vary based on the specific components you use and the brands you choose. Prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and availability.
Comparing Reloading to Factory Ammunition
The cost savings from reloading become apparent when compared to factory-loaded ammunition. Factory 12-gauge shotshells can cost anywhere from $10 to $20 per box of 25, or $0.40 to $0.80 per shell. Using the example above, reloading can cost approximately $1.10 per shell for the first 100 shells, then decreases per shell as the initial investment is spread out over more shells.
Factors Influencing the Overall Cost
Several factors influence the final cost of reloading shotshells:
- Volume: Reloading in larger batches reduces the per-shell cost.
- Component Prices: Prices of components fluctuate, so buying in bulk or during sales can save money.
- Equipment Choice: The initial equipment cost varies significantly.
- Skill Level: Efficient reloading techniques minimize waste and improve cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion: Is Reloading Right for You?
Reloading shotshells offers significant long-term savings for those who shoot frequently. However, the initial investment and ongoing costs should be carefully considered. Weigh the initial investment against your shooting frequency to determine if the long-term cost savings justify the upfront expense. If you're a serious hunter or competitive shooter, the cost savings and ability to customize your loads can make reloading a worthwhile endeavor. But if you only shoot occasionally, the cost might not outweigh the convenience of buying factory loads. Carefully assess your needs and budget before making a decision.